Energy efficient appliances have become far more than an eco-friendly consideration. Skyrocketing costs of energy alongside the technological advancements found in the latest appliances are giving consumers real reason to explore the best refrigerators, air systems, dishwashers and more. On top of that, there are incredible incentives for exploring these products, such as the Department of Energy’s rebate program and tax benefits.
By shopping smart, your energy efficient appliances do more with less energy. Here are some of the greater benefits that come with utilizing energy efficient appliances, how they save money, and how they help you, your community and the environment.
Energy Efficiency Helps Your Wallet
Studies show the average household consumes up to $6,000 in energy a year. But by installing highly rated energy appliances, households have seen savings in the hundreds of dollars.
ENERGY Star appliances are commonplace now. Always keep in mind many products can be labeled ‘Energy Efficient.’ Some even use a similar appearance to the ENERGY Star logo. This does not mean that product is energy efficient, i.e., meets the standards of ENERGY Star. Typical energy usage is gauged by kWhs per year. The lower that number, the more cost effective that product will be in the long term.
You can save between 30 to 80 percent on energy bills by replacing traditional light bulbs with halogens, LEDs and CFLs. Products like LEDs are free of toxins and eco-friendly. They also promise a much longer performance, saving on replacements. Depending on usage, some of these bulbs can last decades.
ENERGY Star appliances can save time as well as utilities. Energy efficient washers and dryers often mean larger loads can be processed in single doses. That leads to less washing and drying, saving even more on energy and time.
Energy Efficiency Helps the Economy
Unknown to many, implementing energy efficient solutions is a scalable alternative, helping everything from local businesses to the federal government.
Currently, consumers that turn to these efficient alternatives are promoting procedures that are saving citizens, businesses and the government over $500 billion dollars a year in energy costs. This number can only grow as more communities and consumers embrace these alternatives.
As the search for energy efficiency grows, industry will be spurred to find greater innovation and policies that improve on current manufacturing performances. One example is how changes in light bulb standards in 2012 led to the development of bulbs that were 25 percent more efficient. LEDs, CFLs and other options have become as available as regular light bulbs, using far less energy.
Energy Efficiency is Enhanced Performance
When you take advantage of ENERGY Star certified appliances, you are promising long term improvement in air quality, electricity, water and heat usage. You will find reduction in dust, pollen, bugs and humidity throughout the home when you use a higher grade of equipment.
Tips for Energy Efficient Shopping
The gas hot water system is one of the most important components of the home and only an exemplary, dependable product should ever be implemented to save money and conserve on both utility and precious water. Five star rated appliances like the Rheem gas hot water systems guarantee exceptional service and savings on every level.
Carefully measure the space to ensure your appliance will fit. This means making sure there is room for opening doors and walking by.
Determine how much time you’d use the appliance. Estimated usage should always be considered in conjunction with price. If you’re using your washing machine a lot, it might be prudent to get a more expensive model with a higher energy rating for its greater long term performance.
Keep an eye out for discounts and other offers. It’s not unusual to encourage buyers to look at these appliances with cash rebates and other incentives.
Take a close look at the Energy Guide label on the appliance. It’s yellow and black, listing the specifics about annual energy use and overall savings. This is the best way to compare brands and models.
Saving on home energy pretty much benefits everyone. Yes, they are going to initially going to cost more upfront. In fact, the greater the energy savings potential the more you are going to pay on the appliance. But you can easily justify the expense by checking the price of the appliance against what you would eventually save. i.e., if you purchase an ENERGY Star certified product that’s going to save you $140 dollars a year and the product lasts at least 10 years, that’s a $1,400 saving. Decide if you would rather spend more now or later.